As a developing paddler you should be a self-sufficient paddler that has some formal training, can assess hazards confidently and are comfortable in moderate conditions. You should be comfortable paddling in winds up to 15 knots and waves/swell up to 3 feet, as well as be able to self-rescue effectively in these conditions. A developing paddler can maintain an effective course in wind and waves, as well as be able to roll their kayak in open water. You should be proficient with deep water rescues and towing systems. As a developing paddler you should have an understanding of trip planning, navigation and equipment selection and be capable of paddling 15 NM over the course of a day.
This information is designed to provide basic information to help you in choosing appropriate paddle trips for your level of experience. The information may be old and outdated and I would encourage you to use several resources when a trip in unfamiliar areas. As always you are responsible for the safe operation and navigation of your own vessel. Happy Paddling!
The paddle around Burrows and Allan Island is quite beautiful but can be challenging due to currents. The shoreline of these island's are primarily sheer rock with sharp drop-offs, while steep hills covered with evergreens or grass make up most of the island's interior as such, landings are limited on Burrows Island and prohibited on Allan Island which is privately owned.
This is a great day paddle or can even be stretched into a short overnighter to just pop out and away form the hustle and bustle of life. There is a WWTA campsite & outhouse located in a small cove on the east side of the island with views of Anacortes.
The west side of Burrows Island is where you will find the Historic Burrows Island Light House standing 57' above sea level. There is a small pocket beach on the north side of the light house that you can land at and scramble up the hillside to enjoy lunch with sweeping views of Rosario Straights and the San Juan Islands. Although tempting, please be good stewards and only camp on the east side of the island in the designated camp ground.
Strong currents form all around the island's with particularly dangerous spots with potential for 2-3' standing waves on the south & west sides of Allan Island. Winds and currents can stronger in the passages between the islands as they are compressed going through the narrow passes. If you are not comfortable paddling in strong currents, then plan your trip during neap tides and paddle near the time of slack water.
SKILL LEVEL:
Newcomers
As a newcomer you have had little to no instruction on how to wet exit and get back in your boat or prevent capsizes effectively. You should only paddle in protected waters near shore and with a friend that can show you the basics. Only attempt
short crossings when accompanied and only launch when you know that the weather is good and not going to change. Avoid any tidal current. The Pacific Northwest is a beautiful place to discover by paddling but there are hidden dangers that you can
avoid with a little bit of knowledge and skills.
To increase your knowledge and skills, find clubs and schools by visiting my Resources Page.
Transitional Paddlers
As a transitional paddler you have been shown and are proficient at wet exiting and self rescues in deepwater. You should have a solid brace to keep yourself upright, you may even be working on getting a reliable roll in the pool or on flat waters. You know the basic paddle strokes and are able to maneuver your boat proficiently on flat water with little wind. You should be able to paddle up to 8 miles in a protected inland environment over the course of a day.
As a developing paddler you should be a self-sufficient paddler that has some formal training, can assess hazards confidently and are comfortable in moderate conditions. You should be comfortable paddling in winds up to 15 knots and waves/swell up to 3 feet, as well as be able to self-rescue effectively in these conditions. A developing paddler can maintain an effective course in wind and waves, as well as be able to roll their kayak in open water. You should be proficient with deep water rescues and towing systems. As a developing paddler you should have an understanding of trip planning, navigation and equipment selection and be capable of paddling 15 NM over the course of a day.
As a progressive paddler you are used to paddling with competent peers in more bumpy ocean settings and are confident in winds up to 20 knots with swells up to 6 feet, you look for more challenging sessions. A progressive paddler will have a well-rounded sea kayaking background and be able to perform all the fundamental skills in moderate to rough water. You should have a reliable roll in open dynamic water, be able to paddle 15 to 20 NM over the course of a day. At this level, paddlers should possess good seamanship skills such as environmental/weather and sea state awareness, tidal and trip planning, on-water navigation and be knowledgeable about emergency procedures and rough water rescues.
Tide races can and do form off any point that has a stream of current going around it and opposing winds. Take care before rounding a corner and finding yourself in rough water. Winds and currents are compressed and sped up in the narrow passages between the islands.